Common Problems with Hot Water Systems

Posted by Author Central on September 23rd, 2022

The Most Common Causes of a Bad Hot Water System

Now that you understand the basic operation of your hot water system, let’s look at some of the common issues that can cause your hot water to be a little less hot than usual. Water Pressure Issues: Your system relies on the pressure in your water pipes to create hot water and keep it at the right temperature. When the pressure in your water pipes gets too low, you’ll start to experience low-pressure situations, which can result in cloudy water, a “squeaky” faucet, or more serious problems, like a burst pipe. If you’re noticing a higher-than-usual number of low-pressure situations in your home, it’s a good idea to have your water pressure tested. Low water pressure can also be caused by a clogged water filter or by aging pipes.

Water Hardness: Depending on the source of your water, you might notice a slight difference in the water’s hardness. Over time, that small difference in mineral content can build up in your pipes, resulting in low water pressure or even a water leak. If you’re seeing an unusually high number of low-pressure situations and you’re not experiencing a specific water quality issue, it’s a good idea to have your water tested for hardness.

Water Temperature Issues: Depending on your water source and your geographical location, your water temperature might be slightly higher or lower than the average temperature in your area. Over time, that slight variation can cause low water pressure or even a water leak. If you’re seeing low-pressure situations that’re not related to a specific water quality issue, it’s a good idea to have your water tested for temperature.

Water Flow Issues: Even if your water pressure and temperature are fine, if the flow is too low, you might experience low water pressure or a water leak. If you’re noticing low water pressure in one area of your home but not others, it’s a good idea to have your water pressure tested. If your water pressure is fine but you’re experiencing low water flow, it’s a good idea to have your water flow tested.

Faulty thermostat

The thermostat is a device that controls the temperature of the water in the hot water system. When a thermostat fails it can become permanently on which means that the water is always too hot and is constantly being heated even when it doesn't need to be. This can be very costly. The other way a thermostat can fail is to become permanently off. You;ll know that this is the case when you step in to that cold shower that you thought was going to be hot.

Faulty electric element

In an electric hot water system there is a device called a heating element. It is usually shaped as an elongated coil and is inserted in the side of the water heater storage tank. Over time corrosion sets in and eventually the element will develop a short circuit or just corrode right through. Either way it means cold showers until you call the plumber. Replacing the element is actually an electrical issue but most plumbers are qualified with a restricted electrical licence so that they can perform this type of work.

Discoloured Water

If you have a gas or electric storage water heater and you notice that the heated water has started to become discoloured this can be sign that the tank itself is on the way out. Hot water storage tanks begin corroding from the first day they are used and after about 5 to 10 years they will be completely unusable. They are usually fitted with a metal rod called a sacrificial anode which helps to delay the corrosion process. Without this they wouldn't even last as long as they do.

Is your water heater a candidate for an upgrade?

So far, you’ve learned what causes each of the common problems with your hot water system, so let’s look at the big question at the heart of any hot water system problem: is your water heater a candidate for an upgrade? When a problem occurs with your hot water system, the first step is often to look at the pipes and components surrounding your hot water heater. If you have a low-pressure situation in your hot water pipes, your water heater might be at the root of the problem. In this case, you’ll need to replace your old water heater with a new model that has higher pressure. If your high-pressure situation is the culprit, it means your hot water pipes are getting too cold, which can happen if your home isn’t properly insulated or your pipes are too far from your water heater. To fix this, you’ll need to upgrade your water heater or install a new one that has a thermostat that keeps the water at a slightly warmer temperature.

When to call a professional and when to handle it yourself

If you suspect one of the above problems, you should definitely have your water pressure tested. You can also try cleaning your water pipes, turning off the water while you clean them, and flushing your pipes. If you’re not experiencing low water pressure or low water temperature, there’s not a lot you can do on your own. If you do have low water pressure, you can try to increase the water pressure in the line by opening a faucet or turning a water valve until the pressure increases. If you’re experiencing low water temperature, you can increase the thermostat temperature on your hot water tank, but you’ll need to contact a water heater repair person if the problem persists after you’ve adjusted the thermostat.

Conclusion

Hot water systems are a key component in any home, but they’re also a potential source of trouble. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to prevent common problems. If you notice any of the above problems, make sure to have your water pressure tested, clean your pipes and adjust your thermostat, and replace your water heater if necessary.